Camera And Accessory Carrying Case With Improved Protection And Access Features

ABSTRACT

A camera storage and transport case ( 2 ) is provided that allows for ease of access to housed devices. A case is provided in a backpack configuration with a main zipper ( 18 ) or release member that allows the case to hinge open in a manner that provides access to internal storage volumes with case.

This U.S. Non-Provisional patent application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/749,715, filed Jan. 7, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to camera cases and the storage of sensitive electronic devices. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is a backpack that includes a camera storage area that employs features for accessing and supporting cameras and camera equipment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Camera cases are commonly used to transport and store cameras. It is often necessary or desirable, however, to allow the user to gain access quickly to the stored camera and to provide additional storage space for camera accessories or other equipment.

Typically, photographers carry multiple camera accessories along with the camera. If the camera case is not sized to accommodate these accessories, they must be independently carried. However, if the camera and accessories are carried together, the carrying bag may become oversized and bulky, which makes the bag difficult to carry. Thus, it is important to provide a camera case that is lightweight and designed to carry the camera and multiple accessories in a rugged and compact space.

Although camera cases are generally known, they have conventionally been designed as utility bags that provide limited access to the interior. Typically, camera cases include a top or side opening for accessing the interior storage compartment. However, these camera cases do not ensure that the camera does not inadvertently move when the bag is opened which may cause potential damage to the delicate electronic componentry. Thus, it would be advantageous to provide a camera case that would maintain the camera in a fixed position within the case.

Moreover, typical camera cases are not efficiently designed to allow the removal and replacement of the stored camera. For example, a conventional utility bag shape that includes short handles or a shoulder strap limits the photographers ability to access the camera with one hand. That is, to access items stored in conventional camera cases, one must remove the case from their person, set the case down, and then gain access to the stored contents. Thus the photographer cannot quickly access the stored camera and associated accessories. It would be desirable to provide a camera case that allows easy access to the stored camera. Additionally, it would be beneficial to provide a camera case which also positions the camera so that it is easy to selectively remove and replace.

In addition, conventional camera cases require the photographer to use one or both hands to carry the camera case. This is undesirable if the photographer is also trying to carry other items or maneuver around objects. Thus it would be advantageous to provide a camera case capable of unobtrusively containing a camera and providing for hands-free carrying.

Furthermore, conventional camera cases have fixed compartments for accessories. Fixed compartments typically do not give a photographer much storage flexibility. For example, some compartments of traditional storage cases are sized for batteries, cords, and flashes but not for lenses. Some camera cases have attempted to provide adjustable compartments; however, such compartments are typically difficult to adjust, do not stay in place, or are not sized to accommodate accessories such as lenses. Thus, it would be desirable to provide a camera case that facilitates the storage of various camera accessories with multiple sizes and geometric shapes.

Cameras and other photographic equipment can be large, heavy and fragile and it is frequently necessary to provide a carrying case to protect them when they are carried. Cameras and their accessories are often carried in and out of cars, vans, buses, trains, airplanes, etc. and often to remote locations. Thus, it is important to have a camera case that adequately protects the contents stored. Moreover, it important to adequately protect the equipment because repairs can be very expensive. Damage to camera equipment while in a storage case is typically caused by the equipment not remaining in a fixed or semi-fixed position while the case is being moved or dropped. Typical camera cases are made from nylon, polyester, aluminum, or some combination thereof. Unfortunately, these materials are usually too rigid or not rigid enough to provide adequate protective storage. Thus, it would be advantageous to provide a camera case containing a molded, rigid support for a camera to maintain the camera in a relatively fixed position.

Additionally, many camera cases and bags are not capable of accommodating a tripod or similar camera accessory. Bags and cases that do provide for such an accessory as well as a camera greatly restrict available access to internal portions of the bag.

There is a long felt but unsolved need for a camera case that avoids the above-mentioned deficiencies of the prior art and provides a camera storage area with a molded support for a camera, positions the stored camera for easy removal, and accommodates multiple accessories with variable shapes such as lenses, and provides dividing walls within the storage case.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a camera storage area with a molded, rigid support for a single-lens reflex (“SLR”) camera. Preferably, the molded support is made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam that possesses the general shape of SLR cameras. Thus it is contemplated that the EVA “cradle” will accommodate many brands of SLR cameras. One embodiment of the present invention additionally provides a cradle having a compliant material that conforms to a stored camera and that additionally provides shock protection.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a camera case that positions the stored camera for easy removal. Embodiments of the present invention are integrated into a backpack such that the cradle is positioned adjacent a bottom portion of the backpack. Hinged opening features are provided for ease of access.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage case that selectively accommodates a plurality of lenses. More specifically, lens holders are included and selectively positioned within the case. The lens holders may be triangularly shaped so as to provide gaps that allow easy access to the stored lenses. The lens holders of embodiments of the present invention include hook and loop material and thus may be affixed to various locations in the interior portion of the camera case. The lens holders are preferably flexible and are designed to accommodate lenses of varying diameters in lengths.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a plurality of dividing walls within the storage case. One embodiment of the present invention employs a horizontally situated wall having a hole therethrough that receives the above-described tube extending from the cradle, and which provides additional lateral stability to the tube. A plurality of selectively adjustable walls which are vertically-oriented, horizontally-oriented, or a combination thereof are provided that allow the user to selectively allow the storage configuration of the camera case.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a camera carrying case with improved access features. For example, in one embodiment, a backpack-style bag is provided that comprises unique and novel opening and access features. Improved access features of the present invention include, for example, a hinge feature which allows a bag to “crack” or fold open, thereby revealing a significant portion of the bags internal contents while also allowing for various components and accessories that may be housed or secured to an outside of the bag to remain in their stored position.

In embodiment, a carrying case adapted for storing articles is provided, the carrying case comprising a primary storage compartment comprising an internal storage volume and defined by a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels comprising a top panel, a bottom panel, a front panel, a rear panel, and two opposing side panels, wherein the rear panel is adapted for positioning against a user of the carrying case. A first opening portion is provided that extends along the two opposing side panels and the rear panel, the rear panel comprises an upper rear panel and a lower rear panel, the upper rear panel and the lower rear panel being selectively separable by the first opening portion. A second opening portion extends along at least one of the side panels and the top panel, the second opening portion providing access to the internal storage volume, and at least one of the panels comprises a substantially pliable material such that the upper rear panel and the front panel are rotatable with respect to the lower rear panel at least when the first opening portion is provided in an open position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention provided in an alternative position;

FIG. 6 is a left elevation view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a right elevation view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a rear elevation view of a camera-carrying bag according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 provides various views of a protective insert according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 a is a top plan view of a protective insert according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 b is a top plan view of a protective insert according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a divider system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, a camera-carrying case 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided. As shown, the case 2 is generally provided in the form a backpack. It will be expressly recognized, however, that the present invention and various novel features thereof are not limited to the depicted embodiment. Indeed, various bags such as duffle bags, shoulder bags, messenger bags, and the like are contemplated as within the scope and spirit of the present invention. As shown, the case 2 comprises shoulder straps 4 a, 4 b, waist straps 6 a, 6 b, and a handle portion 26. The case 2 generally provides the appearance and functionality of a backpack, but comprises various advantages over known backpacks as shown and described herein.

An upper compartment 14 is sealed by a second opening portion 21 to allow ease of access to an internal volume of the case 2 from an upper region. An outer front panel 12 is provided that preferably provides protection against shock, moisture, abrasion, and various other environmental forces and/or factors. The front panel 12 may be selectively openable via a zipper, but is depicted as a being a sealed panel in the figures.

As shown in FIG. 3, a rear panel of the case 2 comprises a lower rear panel 20 which comprises EVA foam for absorption of shock, both with respect to a user's lower back and devices contained within the case 2. The lower rear panel 20 is secured to a remainder of the back of the case 2, and comprises a void space therebetween that may selectively secure one or both waist straps 6 a, 6 b. Lower rear panel 20 thus hides and secures waist straps 6 a, 6 b when the straps are not desired for use. An upper rear panel 10 is provided, the upper rear panel being rotatable with respect to the lower rear panel.

A first opening portion 18, which may comprise a zipper, is provided for selectively opening the case in a hinged manner. Upper and lower regions of the case 2 are separated by the first opening portion 18, and hinged about a bottom portion of the case 17. In one embodiment, the first opening portion 18 is provided as a diagonal zipper, such that when opened, a lower portion 16 of the case 2 is allowed to remain in a flat or level position while the upper portion is hinged relative thereto about a point proximal bottom portion 17.

Referring now to FIG. 5, the case of FIGS. 1-4 is shown in a hinged-open position, wherein internal features and stored devices are exposed for access. As shown, the lower portion 16 of the case 2 is in substantially the same as the upright position of FIGS. 1-4. With the first opening portion 18 opened, a top portion of the case 2 is hinged open to reveal internal contents. A padded insert 24 is provided, the insert 24 comprising a substantially rectangular cube with cushioned divider walls 32. It will be expressly recognized, however, that the shape, size, and features of the internal component 24 are not limiting to the present invention. Indeed, cases of the present invention may comprise various different internal storage and protection devices. The insert 24 is sized and arranged to selectively and securely receive a camera body, camera lens(es), assembled camera(s) 30, filters, polarizers, batteries, and various similar items, for example. Additionally, features of the case 2 including insert 24 may house any number of items that would be desirable to place within a bag and/or transport. Thus, the present disclose is not limited to carriage or stowage of camera equipment and devices.

Still referring to FIG. 5, a tripod device 22 is depicted as being secured to an outer portion of the case 2. As will be recognized, tripods are generally elongate features that obstruct access to internal volumes of conventional bags and cases. Prior art devices require removal of a tripod 22 prior to accessing internally stored components. In contrast, cases of the present invention provide a system whereby the case 2 may hinge or rotate open in such a manner that the tripod 22 may remain secured to the outside of the case 2. While various embodiments of the present invention contemplate a diagonally-oriented first opening portion 18, it will be expressly recognized that the present invention is not so limited. Various other opening or zipper orientations, including curvilinear and horizontal zippers, as well as other fasteners such as hook and loop closures and snaps are contemplated to allow a case of the present disclosure to hinge open.

FIG. 6 provides a side elevation view of one embodiment of the present invention. As shown a left side panel 60 is provided. The left side panel 60 comprises upper and lower portions selectively secured by the first opening portion 18. The first opening portion 18 of the depicted embodiment comprises a zipper, and allows the carrying bag 2 to hinge open as shown and described herein.

FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of one embodiment of the present invention and depicting a front panel 12 and two side panels 60, 62 which are provided substantially perpendicular to the front panel 12. It will be expressly recognized, however, that distinctions between various panels including front, top, bottom, rear and side panels may be of varying degrees. That is, in certain embodiments, various different panels may comprise a unity construction and thus no limitation with respect to seams or transition portions between panels of the present invention is provided herewith.

FIG. 8 provides a side elevation view of one embodiment of the present invention wherein a side pocket 28 is provided, the side pocket extending along approximately two-thirds of the height of the case 2. The pocket 28 is formed from a layer of material secured at a bottom region and provided with a lip 29, the lip comprising the access point for the pocket formed between the main portion of the case and the panel 28. Although not shown in FIG. 11, a similar pocket may be provided on the left side of the bag (FIG. 6) as well. The pocket 28 may house a tripod, or various other features and items. Tripods, as discussed herein, may also be secured without a pocket, such as by various adjustable straps or fasteners provided on an outside portion of the case 2.

FIG. 9 is a rear elevation view of one embodiment of the present invention depicting a rear panel 19 of the device 2. The rear panel 19 comprises an upper rear panel 10 and a lower rear panel 20. The upper rear panel 10 and the lower rear panel 20 are generally divided or separated by the first opening portion 18. In certain embodiments, the upper rear panel 10 comprises an opening portion 11 for accessing a storage volume provided within the upper regions of the bag 2. Although various opening portions shown and described herein are depicted as comprising zippers, it will be recognized that the present invention is not so limited. Opening portions of the present invention are contemplated as comprising any one or more fasteners practical for the intended function, including hook and loop closures, magnets, snaps, etc.

FIG. 10 depicts an insert 24 according to one embodiment of the present invention. A cross-section 44 of a wall portion of the insert 24 is provided, the cross section comprising a polyethylene insert sandwiched between layers of EVA foam with Nylex lamination. The depicted cross-section 44 provides the structure of one embodiment of an insert 24 for a case, and case inserts of the present invention are not limited to such an arrangement of materials. Wall panels 40, 42 are provided. Wall panels 40, 42 preferably comprise movable inserts that may be adjusted and/or relocated to provide protection for devices of varying sizes.

FIGS. 11 a-11 b are top views of one embodiment of an insert 24. As shown, movable padded walls 46 are provided within the insert and a variety of devices including, but not limited to, cameras and lenses that may be secured within the insert 24. Additionally, a padded articulating divider 48 is provided for selective securing of various devices. The padded articulating divider 48 comprises a plurality of padded sections or segments separated by stitching or seams.

As shown in FIG. 13, the divider 48 comprises a plurality of sections 50 generally divided by seams 52, the divider 48 being rotatable or adjustable about each of the seams 52. Laterally extending securing means 54 are provided for securing the insert in a desired position. Laterally extending securing means 54 may comprise, for example, an extending cord (either elastic or inelastic) which may be cinched or secured by additional features, such as one or more cord locks. In various embodiments, the divider 48 is secured along at least one end to an interior portion of the insert 24. The laterally extending securing means 54 may be threaded through a center portion of the divider 48 or woven throughout the divider 48. When in a non-tensioned state, the laterally extending securing means 54 permits user-selected adjustment of the divider 48, such as to conform the divider 48 to devices to be stored. Once placed in the desired position, the laterally extending securing means 54 is tensioned to secure the device(s) in the preferred or desired position. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A carrying case adapted for storing articles, comprising: a primary storage compartment comprising an internal storage volume and defined by a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels comprising a bottom panel, a front panel, a rear panel, and two opposing side panels, wherein the rear panel is adapted for positioning against a user of the carrying case; a first opening portion extending along the two opposing side panels and the rear panel, the rear panel comprising an upper rear panel and a lower rear panel, the upper rear panel and the lower rear panel being selectively separable by the first opening portion; a second opening portion extending along at least one of the side panels, the second opening portion providing access to the internal storage volume; and at least one of the panels comprising a substantially pliable material such that the upper rear panel and the front panel are rotatable with respect to the lower rear panel at least when the first opening portion is provided in an open position.
 2. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first opening portion and the second opening portion is a zipper.
 3. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein the first opening portion comprises a first terminus and a second terminus and a predetermined length therebetween, wherein the first terminus is provided proximal a union of the front panel and a side panel and the second terminus is provided proximal a union of the front panel and an opposing side panel.
 4. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein the first opening portion extends diagonally along the side walls of the case and substantially horizontally along the rear panel of the case.
 5. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein said front panel and said bottom panel are rotatable by at least about 120 degrees with respect to one another.
 6. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein said internal storage volume comprises a plurality of adjustable compartments.
 7. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein said rear panel comprises at least one carrying strap.
 8. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein said internal storage volume comprises a first compartment and a second compartment, said first compartment accessible by opening the first opening portion and the second compartment accessible by opening the second opening portion.
 9. A carrying case adapted for storing articles, comprising: a bottom panel, a front panel, a rear panel, and two opposing side panels, wherein the rear panel is adapted for positioning against a user of the carrying case; a first opening portion extending along the two opposing side panels and the rear panel, the rear panel comprising an upper rear panel and a lower rear panel, the upper rear panel and the lower rear panel being selectively separable by the first opening portion; a second opening portion extending along at least one of the side panels; the first opening portion and the second opening portion permitting access to at least one internal storage compartment for storing articles; and the upper rear panel and the front panel being rotatable with respect to the lower rear panel at least when the first opening portion is provided in an open position.
 10. The carrying case of claim 9, wherein at least one of the first opening portion and the second opening portion is a zipper.
 11. The carrying case of claim 9, wherein the first opening portion comprises a first terminus and a second terminus and a predetermined length therebetween, wherein the first terminus is provided proximal a union of the front panel and a side panel and the second terminus is provided proximal a union of the front panel and an opposing side panel.
 12. The carrying case of claim 9, wherein the first opening portion extends diagonally along the side walls of the case and substantially horizontally along the rear panel of the case.
 13. The carrying case of claim 9, wherein said internal storage compartment comprises a plurality of adjustable compartments.
 14. The carrying case of claim 9, wherein said rear panel comprises at least one carrying strap.
 15. The carrying case of claim 9, wherein said internal storage volume comprises a first compartment and a second compartment, said first compartment accessible by opening the first opening portion and the second compartment accessible by opening the second opening portion.
 16. A carrying case adapted for storing articles, comprising: a bottom panel, a front panel, a rear panel, and two opposing side panels; a first opening portion providing access to a first storage compartment, the first opening portion extending along the two opposing side panels and the rear panel, the rear panel comprising an upper rear panel and a lower rear panel, the upper rear panel and the lower rear panel being selectively separable by the first opening portion; a second opening portion providing access to a second storage compartment and extending along at least one of the side panels; and the upper rear panel and the front panel being rotatable with respect to the lower rear panel at least when the first opening portion is provided in an open position.
 17. The carrying case of claim 16, wherein at least one of the first opening portion and the second opening portion is a zipper.
 18. The carrying case of claim 16, wherein the first opening portion comprises a first terminus and a second terminus and a predetermined length therebetween, wherein the first terminus is provided proximal a union of the front panel and a side panel and the second terminus is provided proximal a union of the front panel and an opposing side panel.
 19. The carrying case of claim 16, wherein the first opening portion extends diagonally along the side walls of the case and substantially horizontally along the rear panel of the case.
 20. The carrying case of claim 16, wherein said rear panel comprises at least one carrying strap. 